Building a Profitable Photography Studio Without Burnout with Talea Wright

Pricing is not just a numbers game. It is the foundation of a sustainable photography business.

In this episode, I chat with Talea Wright to have an honest conversation about pricing, cost of doing business, and what it truly takes to build a profitable studio that lasts. Talea shares her experience opening her first studio at twenty years old, navigating pricing mistakes early on, and learning how to charge in a way that supports both her clients and her life.

We talk about why so many photographers underprice their work, how studio expenses and overhead impact pricing decisions, and why selling products is not about being pushy but about serving clients well. Talea also shares how clarity, education, and confidence play a major role in helping clients understand the value of what they are investing in.

This conversation is a practical look at pricing from someone who has built a long-term business by doing the math, honoring her worth, and committing to sustainability over shortcuts.

What’s in this episode:

• [03:30] How studio ownership impacts pricing decisions
• [06:00] Common pricing mistakes photographers make early on
• [09:30] Understanding the cost of doing business beyond session fees
• [13:00] Why underpricing leads to burnout
• [16:30] Selling products as part of client care, not pressure
• [19:30] Educating clients so pricing feels clear and aligned
• [23:30] Creating pricing that supports long-term sustainability
• [27:30] Confidence, consistency, and standing behind your numbers

If pricing has ever felt confusing, uncomfortable, or overwhelming, the amazing advice in this episode from Talea will help you rethink how you charge and why it matters.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/podcast/

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